The Russian writer Alexander Kuprin (1870-1938) wrote of our celebrated Russian Pancakes: “Blini are round and hot and beautiful like a glorious sun.”

Blini are baked year round, but traditionally they are associated with Maslenitsa, Butterweek, a boisterous celebration to drive out the long, cold winter and welcome spring.

No meat is allowed during Maslenitsa. Therefore, we prepare the delicious pancakes of buckwheat, rye, or wheat flour. They are served with hot butter, sour cream, eggs, herring, salmon, and, of course, caviar. They are also served with honey, marmalade, and marinated fruits. Towards the end of Butterweek the ingredients are skimpier and more humble. We grieve for the festivities as we prepare for the seven weeks of Lent that follow.

Alla Sacharow, Classic Russian Cuisine

We look forward to seeing you on March 10th!

Sunday, March 10th, 2013 11am – 5pm Free Admission and Parking

Menu Featuring: Borsch, Blini with traditional accompaniments and delicious desserts.

Quaff: Vodka and flavored Vodkas, Beer, Kvass.

Pushkin Cultural Centre 89 Stonehurst Ave. Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 1R5 613 599-9743